Visiting in 2024

Visitors outside the White Mill at Kingston Lacy, Dorset | © National Trust Images/John Millar

Take a trip back in time to discover the importance of this peaceful corner of Dorset.

Booking

White Mill is open weekends and Bank Holidays until 27 October. There's no need to book your visit.

Refreshments

We're sorry, but there aren't any refreshments available at White Mill. Kingston Lacy, our sister property, is just down the road (see link below) and has a cafe serving a wide range of hot and cold meals, sandwiches and light snacks, cream teas, crisps, confectionery and ice cream.

You are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy by the river, where there are benches available.

Dogs

Dogs are not allowed inside the mill, but are allowed outside if on a lead. There are plenty of walks in the countryside surrounding the mill, but please be aware of livestock and keep your dog under close control at all times.

Join a tour

Join a guided tour to find out more about the owners and workings of White Mill. Tours are available throughout the day, on days the mill is open, and last around 40-45 minutes.

Walks

Take a gentle stroll along the river where you might spot kingfishers, otters and swans, or see below for a longer walk. Please note, some walks are not suitable for dogs.

Bringing the kids?

There are activities for children in the mill, or you can settle down in the gardens and enjoy a picnic by the river.

Sun shining on the house at Kingston Lacy, leaves on a tree in the foreground are starting to change colour and drop on the lawn

Place

Kingston Lacy

A lavish family home re-imagined as a Venetian Palace in the rural Dorset countryside.

Loaf of bread pudding sliced and ready to serve

Recipe

Bread pudding

Tuck into this comforting recipe for delicious bread pudding using up leftover bread, for a moreish treat after dinner or with a cuppa in the evening.

Trail

Walk at White Mill and the Droves, Kingston Lacy

Enjoy a relaxing circular walk through the water meadows by the River Stour at Kingston Lacy, taking in short stretches on scenic country lanes and along gravel tracks.

White Mill on the River Stour, on the Kingston Lacy estate, Dorset

Trail

Walk at White Mill and Shapwick

Starting by an 18th-century mill, this moderate walk goes over rough pasture, alongside the River Stour, through the picturesque village of Shapwick and returns on lanes to White Mill.